Similar to Art Deco in its abandonment of historical ornamentation, the Moderne style features austere decorative elements associated with the trains and ships of the period and forms related to the International Style that began in Europe in the 1920s. Rounded corners, smooth surfaces devoid of ornament, and a distinct horizontal quality differentiate it from Art Deco. Products made available with the development of new technology prior to World War II, such as curved window glass, glass block, aluminum, and stainless steel, were common components. Circular windows and a few decorative metal panels, usually around entrances and windows, are often the only ornamentation. Because of its horizontal quality and plain surfaces, it is often called Steamless Moderne. Unlike Art Deco, the Moderne style was popular for homes as well as commercial buildings; in fact, nationally it was the predominant form of modern residential styling in the late 1930s.

Walker-Etz House, 2003 17th St., 1937; O. R. Walker, architect; LHL
519 Ave. J., 1938 with additions
2515 21st. St., 1939
3112 21st. St., 1939
2302 28th St., 1939
2103 29th St., 1939 with additions
2123 31st St., 1939
1801 Broadway, 1940 with alterations
Lindsey Theater, 1019 Main, 1940 with alterations; Corgan & Moore, Dallas, architects
1635 19th St., 1945; Haynes & Kirby, architects
O. L. Slaton Junior High School, 1602 32nd St., 1948 with additions; Haynes, Strange & Kirby, architects
J. T. Hutchinson Junior High School, 3102 Canton, 1948 with additions; Haynes, Strange & Kirby, architects
1420 Ave. J, 1949 (Pictured)
2124 34th St., 1951